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Valentine's Day (or as they say in Spanish "El Dia de Amor y Amistad")


One of the things that always makes me laugh and often cringe at the same time is when American holidays are exported overseas - from commercialized "Christmas" celebrations (where Santa Claus has all but replaced Jesus Christ) to creepy borderline-Satanic Halloween festivities (and even without all the creepy horror stuff - do we really need another reason to spend money?), it all feels a little bit strange.

Yet if there is one North American holiday that Latin Americans seem to celebrate 'right' (and maybe even better than we do) it is Valentines Day.

In Latin America, Valentines Day (still celebrated February 14th) is called "El Dia de Amor y Amistad" [the day of  love and friendship], and is among other things, a day to celebrate the people in your life.



Some of the things for sale in the streets for "El Dia de Amor y Amistad"


While Valentines day in the US seems to be reserved as an occasion primarily for romantic love, in Laitn America it is a day for the whole family - with adults and children buying "I love you" and "You are Special" balloons and chocolates for everyone in their families (brothers, sisters, parents, grand parents, children, and sometimes others too!) - as well as for dear friends - and co-workers. In large families it is not uncommon for everyone to receive many small gifts. Rebeca's family usually does a secret santa style gift giving, to assure that everyone receives something - without having to spend an arm and a leg. The purpose is to show the many people in your life the love and appreciation you have for them.

This 'others focused' style of celebrating Valentines Day ("El Dia de Amor y Amistad") is typical of Latin America - where people are generally more 'group focused' than 'self focused' - and the cohesion of the family unit and inter-dependance is usually valued high above individualism and independence.

And so - today in San Salvador - the streets are lined with vendors selling candy, balloons, stuffed animals, and other small gifts - just to say "I love you!" to all of those important people in your life - and it is a good day for it :)

Why not learn something from Latin America, and celebrate this Valentines Day with an 'others focus'?

You might be glad you did - and well - so will all of the other people in your life whom you care for :)

Happy Dia de Amor y Amistad, AMIGOS!!
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